Feed Dog For Overlock Sewing Machine

The feed dog in an overlock machine, also known as a serger, is a crucial component that helps to advance the fabric through the machine during the sewing process. The feed dog consists of a series of metal teeth that protrude through the needle plate and move in an up-and-down motion.

Here's how the overlock feed dog works:

1. Fabric Placement: Begin by placing the fabric under the presser foot and aligning the edge to be sewn along the edge of the feed dog area.

2. Engaging the Feed Dog: Lower the presser foot lever to engage the presser foot and apply pressure onto the fabric. This pressure is transmitted to the feed dog, causing it to engage and start moving.

3. Fabric Feeding: As you start sewing, the feed dog's teeth will grip the fabric and move it forward. The combination of the feed dog's upward and downward movement, along with the movement of the fabric under the presser foot, ensures a consistent and even feed of the fabric through the machine.

4. Stitching: As the fabric moves forward, the machine's needles will penetrate the fabric, forming the desired stitches. The feed dog's continuous motion ensures that the fabric advances smoothly, allowing the needles to create consistent and accurate stitches.

5. Differential Feed: Some overlock machines have a differential feed mechanism that allows you to adjust the speed at which the front and back feed dogs move. This feature is useful for handling different types of fabrics, such as stretchy or slippery materials, by controlling the amount of fabric that is fed through the machine.

Proper maintenance of the feed dog is important to ensure smooth and accurate fabric feeding. Regularly clean the feed dog area to remove any lint or debris that may accumulate and affect its performance. Consult your machine's manual for specific instructions on cleaning and maintaining the feed dog.

It's worth noting that the design and functionality of feed dogs may vary slightly between different models and brands of overlock machines. Always refer to your machine's manual for specific instructions on how to engage, disengage, or adjust the feed dog according to your sewing needs.

Remember, the feed dog plays a vital role in the overall performance of your overlock machine, ensuring consistent fabric feeding and stitch quality throughout your sewing projects.